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Council weighs standardizing veteran and first-responder discounts for recreation memberships
Summary
Recreation staff recommended aligning discounts to 20–25% for memberships only after finding inconsistent policies between the Recreation Center (15%) and pool (50% for veterans). Council asked staff to clarify documentation requirements and include changes in the Dec. 2 Fee Schedule update.
Recreation Director Megan Zollinger told the council that discount policies for veterans and first responders were inconsistent between city facilities: the Recreation Center has provided a 15% discount for military, veterans and police for memberships, while the pool’s published discount lists 50% off for veterans and does not specify police or fire.
Zollinger presented usage figures: through this year the Recreation Center recorded 36 discounts totaling $510 in foregone revenue, while the pool provided 57 discounts totaling $810. She reported that neighboring cities’ discounts ranged from 10% to 25% and recommended a 20–25% discount for memberships only, noting that parks and rec departments she contacted typically limit discounts to membership products rather than day or seasonal passes.
Council members discussed documentation (possible pay stub, badge or employer letter) and whether the discount should apply to individuals only or to families. Council Member Cyd LeMone favored a 25% discount for veterans and first responders and requested clarity on acceptable documentation. Administrator Darrington said staff would incorporate the recommended changes into the Fee Schedule for consideration at the Dec. 2 council meeting and increase outreach/marketing so eligible users know the benefit exists.
